if i use a skill card like deduction #39, do i get +1 lore as well as the effects of the card? i know this does not apply to other cards (items and such) but kinda is foggy for me with skill cards

right now i am assuming i choose either +1 to lore or the effect; (additional clue found if skill test passed) during the window

Skill cards give you both.

kk, sweet thanks;)

Because you cannot "play" a skill card, the only way they can be used is to commit them for a skill test, which is why they have no cost listed so the text is always referring to the test for which they are committed.